Keratitis
By Bjarne Lühr Hansen PhD, MD and Philipp Skafte-Holm MD, Mentor Institute
Keratitis is an infection caused by a virus (herpes simplex) and should be treated by an ophthalmologist. The infection often occur when using contact lenses or by a scratch on the cornea.
Small superficial scratches in the cornea and mild forms of keratitis usually heal quickly when treated with ointment or eye drops with antibiotics and normal eyesight is regained.
Deeper wounds and infections to the cornea is a serious condition and can threaten your eyesight.
When healing, scar tissue is usually formed that can lead to permanent reduced eyesight. When using contact lenses, hygiene is important and you should not use contact lenses if the eyes are irritated, red or there is pus in the eyes. It is important that you have a pair of glasses that fits so you are not ‘forced’ into using the lenses in spite of nuisances. Glasses must be used by the slightest irritation in the eye. If you suspect keratitis, it is important to bring lenses, covers and cleaning fluid when visiting the ophthalmologist that need them to determine the type of inflammation.
You cannot use your contact lenses again, until the ophthalmologist says it is okay.